World and North American debuts

Maserati Spyder

highlight 2002 L.A. Auto Show

By Michael Binstock

Acorn Automotive Editor

Southern Californians are accustomed to Hollywood previews and movie stars. But on Jan. 5 inside the Los Angeles Convention Center, they’ll see the stars of the automotive world come alive as the world’s automakers provide sneak previews of their newest models at the 2002 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. Of the more than 1,000 vehicles exhibited, more than two dozen will be receiving their World or North American debut.

H2 Hummer

Can the low-slung, powerful NSX sports car get any better? Acura thinks so, as the NSX is upgraded and further refined.

Audi takes the top off its popular A4, a first for the model, making it ideal for Southern California motoring. Avant means "wagon" and the new A4 Avant is also introduced.

The BMW 745i undergoes a complete redesign for the first time in its seven-year history. It’s the most technologically advanced BMW ever.

The stunning new Chrysler Crossfire is expected to be the next "halo" car, similar to the Dodge Viper and Plymouth Prowler.

From GM’s Hummer division the H2 will be the first small-sized Hummer, yet the more driver-friendly and affordable vehicle retains its rugged outward appearance and smooth ride.

The environmentally-sensitive Honda Civic Hybrid achieves roughly 50 miles per gallon by utilizing a lean gasoline engine and electric motor, making it one of the most fuel efficient vehicles in the world.

From Jaguar comes the 2003 S-Type R: This new cat has performance modifications and a higher output performing engine and appears in dealerships later next year.

The all-new Lamborghini Murcielago is the first exciting new model from this Italian automaker in 10 years, replacing the Diablo, and comes with a blinding 0-62 mph speed of 3.8 seconds.

Making its world debut is the Lioncoln Concept Vehicle. With a promise of the ultimate expression of American luxury this concept vehicle will define the design direction of Lincoln.

Marking its return to the U.S. after a 10 year absence, drivers of the Maserati Spyder will enjoy its 385-horsepower V-8 engine and exotic Italian styling. The Spyder will be the highlight of a special Spyder exhibition that chronicles its illustrious history.

From Mercedes-Benz , the new generation SL luxury car is new from top to bottom. It features a convenient retractable top and a potent 302-horsepower V8 engine.

With an extensive list of standard features, the Mini Cooper S returns to the U.S. market in a big way, drawing power from its 1.6-liter supercharged engine to deliver exciting sporting performance.

Nissan’s highly anticipated new Z takes the styling theme of the original 240Z and features a 3.5-liter 24-valve V-6.

The new 2003 Pontiac Vib five-door sport wagon combines car-like handling, comfortable seating and large cargo-hauling capabilities.

Porsche adds the 911 Targa and Carrera 4S to its model lineup. The Targa features an innovative retractable glass roof. The 4S is based on the Carrera Coupe, and features a 325-horsepower six-cylinder engine.

Built in Fremont, Calif., the Matrix is Toyota’s new entry in the multi-purpose vehicle segment. It provides the functionality of an SUV, the performance of a sports car and the affordability of a subcompact.

The stylized and fun-loving Volkswagen New Beetle will receive a horsepower boost in the form of a new supercharged version that will deliver 180-horsepower of driving excitement, while the 2002 Volkswagen Passat W8 raises the bar on luxury and performance by introducing the first VW with a revolutionary W-8 engine.

Volvo’s flagship S80 sedan will undergo some modifications that only improves an already outstanding car that is known for its innovative safety designs and smooth handling.

In all, more than 1,000 vehicles of every size and shape will be exhibited between Sat., Jan. 5 and Sun., Jan. 13.

Admission to the L.A. Auto Show is $8 for adults and $5 for seniors on weekdays. Children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. For additional information, call (213) 741-1151, ext. 1.